Rio Tinto appoints managing director, China

Friday, 5 February 2010 12:00 AM

Rio Tinto has appointed Ian Bauert as managing director, China, with immediate effect.

Ian will be based in Shanghai and will lead Rio Tinto's 160-strong team of employees in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou. He speaks fluent Mandarin and established the company's first office in China more than 25 years ago. Ian has since held numerous senior positions with Rio Tinto.

Tom Albanese, chief executive officer, Rio Tinto, said the new role underlines the importance the company places on enhancing its relationship with China. "I am deeply committed to developing our relationship with China. Ian's experience and leadership will provide strategic direction and help guide all aspects of our engagement with China, one of our most important partners."

Ian reports to Doug Ritchie, who last year assumed direct responsibility for Rio Tinto's activities in China, in addition to his role as chief executive, Energy.

"This appointment recognises the importance of China as a long term partner with our organisation and our intention to foster new and dynamic relationships as China's development continues," Doug Ritchie said.

Notes to editors
Ian Bauert's most recent role was managing director, Sales and Marketing, Iron Ore. He started his career at Rio Tinto more than 30 years ago and has held various positions including managing director, Dampier Salt, managing director, New Business, Iron Ore.

About Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group headquartered in the UK, combining Rio Tinto plc, a London and NYSE listed company, and Rio Tinto Limited, which is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.

Rio Tinto's business is finding, mining, and processing mineral resources. Major products are aluminium, copper, diamonds, energy (coal and uranium), gold, industrial minerals (borax, titanium dioxide, salt, talc) and iron ore. Activities span the world but are strongly represented in Australia and North America with significant businesses in South America, Asia, Europe and southern Africa.

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